Raynaud's Phenomenon

What is Raynaud's phenomenon?

Raynaud's phenomenon or, simply, Raynaud's, is a disorder characterized by decreased blood flow to the fingers, and less frequently to the ears, toes, nipples, knees, or nose. Vascular spasms usually occur as attacks in response to cold exposure, stress, or emotional upset.

Raynaud's can occur alone (primary form) or may occur with other diseases (secondary form). The diseases most frequently associated with Raynaud's are autoimmune or connective tissue diseases, among others, such as:

What causes Raynaud's phenomenon?

The exact cause of Raynaud's is unknown. One theory links blood disorders characterized by increased platelets or red blood cells that may increase the blood thickness. Another theory involves the special receptors in the blood that control the constriction of the blood vessels that are shown to be more sensitive in individuals with Raynaud's.

What is a risk factor?

A risk factor is anything that may increase a person's chance of developing a disease. It may be an activity, such as smoking, diet, family history, or many other things. Different diseases have different risk factors.

Although these factors can increase a person's risk, they do not necessarily cause the disease. Some people with one or more risk factors never develop a disease, while others develop the disease and have no known risk factors.

But, knowing your risk factors to any disease can help to guide you into the appropriate actions, including changing behaviors and being clinically monitored for the disease.

What are the risk factors for Raynaud's phenomenon?

There are certain diseases or lifestyle choices that can increase a person's risk for developing Raynaud's. These risk factors include:

Existing connective tissue or autoimmune disease

Cigarette smoking

Repetitive actions, such as typing or use of tools that vibrate (like a jack hammer)

Injury or trauma

Chemical exposure

Side effects from certain medications

What are the symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon?

The following are the most common symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

A pattern of color changes in the fingers as follows: pale or white followed by blue then red when the hands are warmed; color changes are usually preceded by exposure to cold or emotional upset

Hands may become swollen and painful when warmed

Ulcerations of the finger pads develop (in severe cases)

Gangrene may develop in the fingers and, in rare cases, lead to infection or amputation

How is Raynaud's phenomenon diagnosed?

There are no specific laboratory tests that can confirm a diagnosis of Raynaud's phenomenon. Instead, diagnosis is usually based on reported symptoms. Your doctor may perform a cold challenge test to bring out color changes in the hands or a nailfold capillaroscopy where your fingernail is examined under a microscope.

Tests to determine which form—primary or secondary—of Raynaud's phenomenon a patient may have include a medical exam, blood tests, and a complete medical history.

What is the treatment for Raynaud's phenomenon?

Specific treatment for Raynaud's phenomenon will be determined by your doctor based on:

Your age, overall health, and medical history

Extent of the disease

Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, and therapies

Expectation for the course of the disease

Your opinion or preference

Although there is no cure for Raynaud's phenomenon, the disorder can often be successfully managed with proper treatment. Treatment may include:

Preventive measures, such as avoidng cold exposure and wearing extra layers to keep warm, including warm gloves, socks, scarf, and a hat

Smoking cessation

Wearing finger guards over ulcerated fingers

Avoiding trauma or vibration to the hand (such as vibrating tools)

Medications that are usually used to treat high blood pressure (antihypertensive medications) may be given during the winter months (to help reduce constriction of the blood vessels)

Individuals who first experience Raynaud's phenomenon after ages 35 to 40 may be tested for an underlying disease. The primary form of Raynaud's is the most common type, and usually begins between ages 15 and 25. It's less severe, and few people with this form develop another related condition.